Home Entertainment. Recordings...

Remainders The Remainders (Revolting...

July 22, 1993|By Dan Kening.

Remainders

The Remainders (Revolting) (STAR)(STAR)(STAR) 1/2

Unfortunate record-label name aside, local rockers the Remainders' self-titled debut is a glorious introduction that perfectly captures the excitement of their live shows. Like kindred spirits Paul Cebar and the Milwaukeeans, the Remainders have a variety of ethnic influences bubbling in their musical cauldron with danceability as the common link. Zydeco, country, rhythm and blues and Jamaican ska figure in the 12 tunes written primarily by guitarist Bucky Halker. But whether sung by Halker or saxist Rich Parenti, songs like "Still Feel the Pain," "Calling Your Name" and "Josephine" have killer hooks, bolstered by the driving rhythm section of bassist Gordon Patriarca and drummer Nick Forchione and Buddha Slim's accordion and organ flourishes. Parenti's vocals and sax are gritty and soulful on his own "All I Want," while the ska medley of Bill Deal and the Rhondels' "May I"/"I've Been Hurt" provides an irresistible closer.